An investigation of internal solitary waves in a two-fluid system

The results of an experimental investigation dealing with finite-amplitude internal solitary waves in a two-fluid system are presented. Particular attention is paid to characterizing solitons in terms of their shape and amplitude–wavelength scale relationship. Two cases are considered, viz. , a shallow- and a deep-water configuration, in order to study the depth effect upon the propagational characteristics of the waves. Comparisons are made between the experimental results and existing internal-wave theories. In addition, discussion is presented describing how these existing theories may be extended to include higher-order nonlinear and viscous effects.